Supplies will help school nurses handle emergencies, keep kids healthy
By Mark Hebert
September 21, 2023–Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) continues to ensure it is fully equipped to take care of its students while also addressing community issues that spill into the school.
Thanks to grant funding, the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness (LMPHW) is providing critical medical supplies to JCPS schools. The supplies include rolling carts, Stop the Bleed kits and high-quality medical bags.
“JCPS is one of the largest healthcare providers in our community. With more than 96,000 students, our school nurses provide care for everything from vaccinations to medical emergencies,” said Eva Stone, manager of JCPS Health Services. “We are grateful for this generous support, which will go a long way in helping us continue to meet the growing health and safety needs of our students.”
The rolling carts will be used to securely transport and store essential supplies including EpiPens, medications, and other medical items, making them easily accessible throughout the school day. iPads will be used to facilitate communication and translation services at vaccine clinics, ensuring all members of the community have access to the health care they deserve. Stop the Bleed kits allow all schools to be prepared in the case of a medical emergency where someone is experiencing blood loss.
“We know preparation is key when it comes to saving lives and reducing harm,” said Dr. Inder Singal, interim medical director at LMPHW. “We need to do all we can to ensure children’s safety and overall well-being. This is a small example of the great partnership we have with JCPS where the goal is to enhance emergency preparedness, disease control and prevention efforts, and emergency response and recovery capabilities.”
In total, LMPHW is providing JCPS with:
28 rolling carts
175 Stop the Bleed kits
28 first responder bags
8 iPads
8 iPad stands
155 medical tackle boxes
These tools will help JCPS expand its care. JCPS is also providing each school nurse with Albuterol and Narcan.